The 2024 election marked a historic moment for trans and nonbinary candidates in the U.S., with many breaking barriers and pushing for inclusive representation. These trailblazing leaders are not only making waves in their respective offices but also inspiring countless others to participate in democracy. Here's a closer look at 20 trans and nonbinary politicians who secured pivotal victories:
1. Sarah McBride – U.S. House of Representatives (Delaware)
Sarah McBride is set to become the first out transgender person elected to Congress. After a commanding win in Delaware, McBride aims to protect transgender rights nationwide, earning support from prominent LGBTQ+ advocacy groups.
2. Leslie Blackburn – Lodi Township, Michigan Trustee
Leslie Blackburn secured a win as a trustee in Lodi Township, Michigan. Running on a platform emphasizing environmental protection and governmental transparency, Blackburn is committed to community-focused leadership.
3. Precious Brady-Davis – Greater Chicago, Illinois Metropolitan Water Reclamation District
Precious Brady-Davis made history as the first Black trans woman elected in Cook County, Illinois. Her priorities include combating city flooding, ensuring sustainable drinking water, and improving the energy efficiency of water systems.
4. Brian Cina – Vermont House of Representatives
Brian Cina, a genderqueer/nonbinary representative, was re-elected to Vermont’s legislature. Cina's work focuses on supporting marginalized families, youth outreach, and advocating for social equity.
5. Mari Cordes – Vermont House of Representatives
Re-elected to the Vermont House, Mari Cordes, a genderqueer leader, is known for her humanitarian efforts in Haiti, union organizing, and spearheading progressive policies in Vermont.
6. Brion Curran – Minnesota House of Representatives
Brion Curran, a nonbinary member of the Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party, won re-election in Minnesota. Curran champions causes such as disability rights, reproductive freedom, and environmental justice.
7. Emma Curtis – Lexington-Fayette, Kentucky Urban County Council
Emma Curtis became the first trans woman elected to Lexington-Fayette's council. She emphasizes the importance of visibility for trans youth, saying, “Representation matters at every level of government.”
8. Amber Fellows – Ypsilanti, Michigan City Council
Amber Fellows, a nonbinary candidate, earned a seat on Ypsilanti’s city council. Advocating for housing justice, Palestinian liberation, and reparations for marginalized communities, Fellows represents a diverse, inclusive vision.
9. Leigh Finke – Minnesota House of Representatives
Leigh Finke secured re-election in Minnesota’s legislature, continuing her advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights. Her instrumental role in passing the state’s trans refugee bill has solidified her as a key voice for equality.
10. Xavier Johnson – Berkeley, California Rent Stabilization Board
Xavier Johnson, a genderqueer politician, joined Berkeley’s Rent Stabilization Board. Johnson focuses on ensuring safe, affordable housing, especially for marginalized communities.
11. Alicia “Liish” Kozlowski – Minnesota House of Representatives
Alicia Kozlowski, a nonbinary Indigenous leader, was re-elected in Minnesota. Kozlowski helped establish the Queer Caucus and continues to advocate for progressive policies in the state legislature.
12. Jo Miller – Woodbury, New Jersey City Council
Jo Miller, the first elected transgender and nonbinary Democrat in southern New Jersey, was re-elected to Woodbury’s city council. Miller’s mission is to create positive change and foster inclusive communities.
13. DeShanna Neal – Delaware House of Representatives
DeShanna Neal, Delaware’s first nonbinary legislator, won re-election by advocating for educator pay raises, free school lunches, and rent control policies to benefit working families.
14. Ambureen Rana – Maine House of Representatives
Ambureen Rana, a genderqueer Muslim representative, was re-elected in Maine. Rana’s platform addresses economic instability, housing insecurity, and justice for marginalized communities.
15. Evelyn Rios Stafford – Washington County, Arkansas Justice of Peace
Evelyn Rios Stafford, a trans woman, focuses on COVID-19 relief, affordable housing, and criminal justice reform in her role as Justice of Peace for Washington County, Arkansas.
16. Abigail Salisbury – Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Abigail Salisbury, who identifies as bisexual and autistic, won a seat in Pennsylvania's House. Her progressive platform includes LGBTQ+ rights, cannabis legalization, and reproductive justice.
17. Brianna Titone – Colorado House of Representatives
Brianna Titone, the first openly trans legislator in Colorado, won re-election. A former geologist and software developer, Titone champions equity and environmental policies.
18. Alfred Twu – Berkeley, California Rent Stabilization Board
Alfred Twu secured a seat on Berkeley’s Rent Stabilization Board, pledging to protect tenant rights and ensure affordable housing for vulnerable populations.
19. Aime Wichtendahl – Iowa House of Representatives
Aime Wichtendahl made history as Iowa’s first transgender legislator. Her campaign prioritized civil rights, union support, and reproductive health access, signaling a new era in Iowa politics.
20. Zooey Zephyr – Montana House of Representatives
Zooey Zephyr, re-elected to Montana’s House, continues to advocate for trans rights at both state and national levels. Her work represents a beacon of hope for LGBTQ+ communities across the country.
These leaders are transforming the political landscape with their dedication to equity, justice, and representation. Their victories signify a growing recognition of the need for diverse voices in governance.